Cost effectiveness of railroad fuel spill prevention using a new locomotive refueling system

The reliability and compatibility of automatic shut-off refueling systems for locomotives has been an issue for many years. This article discusses the first standard for a locomotive refueling system for North American railroads, which was developed by the Association of American Railroads. The locomotive fueling interface standard (LFIS) is an open, non-proprietary performance and design standard designed to prevent fuel spillage. Prototype LFIS equipment was successfully tested in laboratory and field tests and found to operate reliably and prevent spillage. The standard represents a shift from pollution control to pollution prevention regarding environmental protection during refueling. Cost-benefit analyses indicate that the adoption of the LFIS is a cost-effective way to reduce fuel waste and treatment expense. Sensitivity analyses indicate the robustness of the result. Savings due to reduction in energy and environmental costs that railroads can expect to accrue are likely to pay for the new equipment in one to three years. The principal savings will come from the reduction in expenses related to waste treatment and disposal.